GCSE OptiOnS2019 – 2021

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Contents

Contents 1

Introduction 2

What does the curriculum consist of at GCSE? 2-4

Sources of advice and information 4

How to make choices 5

Government reform and changes to GCSE grading

Art 7

Art and Design: Textiles 7-8

Classical Civilisation 8-9

Classical Greek 9

Computer Science 9-10

Dance 10-11

Design and Technology 11-12

Drama 12

EAL – IGCSE English as an Additional Language 12-13

French 13-14

Geography 14-15

German 15

History 15-16

Latin 16-17

Music 17

Physical Education 17-18

Religious Studies 18-19

Spanish 19

Details of GCSE Subject Specifications 20

Heads of Departments’ Contact Details 21

GCSE Option Choices Form 2019–2021 22

Extra costs

6

6

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Introduction

Making GCSE choices involves narrowing down the range of subjects studied in order

to study some in more depth. This is really the start of a process that will continue

throughout an individual’s education and it is an important opportunity to give

serious thought about interests and talents.

This booklet has been designed to help parents and guardians understand the GCSE

curriculum at Eastbourne College. It contains information about the core curriculum

– the subjects that we expect everyone to study – and the options available to an

individual pupil at this stage in his or her education. We hope that you will find it

useful as a basis for discussion with your son or daughter, and that it will allow you

to help them find a combination of subjects that will enthuse and inspire them next

year.

What does the curriculum consist of at GCSE?

All pupils follow a core course consisting of the following subjects:

English language

English literature

biology

chemistry

physics

maths

life & learning skills (PSHE)

The IGCSE mathematics course provides a thorough grounding and preparation for A-levels in mathematics, physics, economics and other courses that rely heavily on numerical analysis.

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In most cases pupils will sit IGCSE in mathematics at the end of Year 11. There are a

number of pupils who are capable of studying at a faster rate than this, and for

these we offer the opportunity to take the IGCSE at the end of Year 10. This leaves

Year 11 free to study the additional mathematics course, a greater challenge to the

more able pupil and excellent preparation for A-level.

In keeping with new changes to GCSE specifications, the English department teach

for the Edexcel language and literature syllabuses. In language lessons, pupils are

taught essential reading and writing skills, developing analytical and evaluative

skills, as well as reinforcing understanding of grammar, punctuation and spelling. In

literature, pupils study a 19th century novel, a Shakespeare play, a collection of 15

poems and a post-1914 British play or novel.

All three science subjects are taught by specialists in the individual sciences and in

dedicated laboratories. Although there are national options which allow fewer, all

Eastbournians will complete Year 11 with at least two science GCSE grades.

At the end of Year 11, all pupils will take GCSE examinations in all three sciences at

a level which is known as GCSE Separate Science or GCSE Combined Science Trilogy

(Double Award).

The AQA GCSE Combined Science Trilogy (Double Award) is eminently suitable as

preparation for A-level study in any of the three sciences and ensures that all

Eastbourne College pupils have at least two GCSE science grades.

At the end of Year 10 and based largely upon internal examination results, the most

able scientists may be invited to pursue each of the separate sciences by studying

for a GCSE in each of biology, chemistry and physics to gain discrete grades in each.

Personal, social, health and economic education (PSHE) is a non-examinable part of

the curriculum. Pupils work in small groups exploring a wide range of topics that

belong to the PSHE and citizenship curriculum such as bullying, first aid, well-being,

sex and relationships education, careers, personal finance, along with other life

skills and values. A particular emphasis is put on the study and examination skills

through the learning and thinking course. The PSHE programme incorporates some

elements of religious studies, which is also a subject available as a GCSE option.

PSHE runs throughout Years 10 and 11.

In addition to this, time is set aside for optional subjects. A pupil can choose three

options from those shown on page 4, in addition to a modern foreign language.

Those pupils who do not study a modern foreign language may choose an additional

option subject or may choose supported study.

For current pupils, this decision should be carefully discussed with a pupil’s tutor

and hsm, as well as in consultation with the Deputy Head (Academic), Mr Gilbert.

For new pupils, this decision should in the first instance be discussed with the

admissions department.

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A pupil’s four optional subjects, including a modern foreign language, will be from

the list below:

• Art

• Classical Civilisation

• Computer Science

• Dance

• Design and Technology

• Drama

• English as an additional language (EAL)*

• French

• German

• Geography

• Greek and Latin**

• History

• Latin

• Music

• Physical Education

• Religious Studies

• Spanish

• Supported Study

• Art Textiles

*EAL should be an alternative subject choice for pupils who have not studied a

modern foreign language previously and who may need extra support with their

English.

**This is a combined subject option for pupils who have studied Latin and Classical

Greek in Year 9; pupils will sit both subjects for GCSE examination.

We encourage pupils who have benefited from one-to-one Learning Support provision

in Year 9, to choose Supported Study as one of the option blocks to enable this

provision to continue within taught curriculum time wherever possible.

More information about each of these options is given later in the booklet. Award

holders in art, drama, DT and music are expected to opt for that subject.

Sources of advice and information

The choice of what to study for GCSE should be the pupil’s. Universities and

employers look at the grades that young people have achieved at GCSE and not

particularly at the subjects they were in. Pupils at Eastbourne College, in common

with those elsewhere, achieve more highly in subjects that they are really interested

in and this should guide a pupil’s choice.

You will be an important source of advice to your son or daughter, but they should

also talk to their Housemaster or Housemistress, their tutor, and their subject

teachers. Particular queries about the GCSE curriculum as a whole may be directed

to the Head of Curriculum, Mr P J Canning.

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How to make choices

There is a form at the back of this booklet which should be filled in with a subject

option from each block. The form should be returned to your son or daughter’s

Housemaster or Housemistress. If you are a new pupil, please return the form to the

admissions department on admissions@eastbourne-college.co.uk.

We would be grateful if you would sign the form to confirm that you have discussed

the choices with your son or daughter and are happy with them. For our current Year

9 pupils, there is an option choices meeting on Friday 24 May which will help to

confirm your son or daughter’s choices. Any new Year 10 pupil is welcome to join

this meeting.

The form is due back by Monday 3 June.

We would normally expect to be able to provide all reasonable combinations of

subjects, providing we know about them early enough. It is difficult to guarantee

that we can accommodate last minute amendments, so please ensure that we are

kept up to date with any changes of heart.

Block 1 Block 2 Block 3 Block 4

French French Spanish French

Art Spanish Art German

Classical Civilisation Art Computer Science Drama

Computer Science Classical

Civilisation

Design &

Technology

Design &

Technology

Design & Technology Dance Greek & Latin EAL

EAL Drama Geography Geography

Geography Design &

Technology History History

History History Latin PE

PE Latin Music Religious Studies

Religious Studies Music PE Art Textiles

Supported Study PE Art Textiles Supported Study

Supported Study Supported Study

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Government reform and changes to GCSE grading

Under government reform of GCSE qualifications, new GCSE specifications have been

introduced gradually over the last few years and new specifications are now used in

all subjects. One of the biggest changes is that the new GCSEs are graded from 9 to

1 instead of from A* to G.

The diagram below helps to explain how the new GCSE grading structure compares

with the more familiar A* to G model.

Extra costs

There will be a charge for public examination fees and non-returnable books. There

may be other incidental costs, for example for trips relating to the curriculum and

these will also be charged as extras. These should not exceed £40 per subject per

term unless parental consent is given. Notice of other unpredictable extras is given

in advance.

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Art

What does Art involve at GCSE?

During the Art GCSE course pupils

investigate starting points visually and

analytically through drawing from

observation, taking photographs and

studying other artists. Pupils then

develop their ideas through the use of

different media and techniques in order

to create strong final pieces. In Year 10

we start both coursework projects,

ultimately worth 60% of the final grade.

These will be mainly teacher led, giving

everyone the opportunity to learn

important drawing, painting,

printmaking, photography, ceramics,

research and evaluative skills. We

encourage everyone to find individual

outcomes, in both two and three

dimensions. This ensures all our pupils

have the knowledge and ability to

achieve the highest possible grades.

In Year 11 pupils revisit their previous

projects in order to refine and develop

them. As their confidence grows pupils

are encouraged to try different

techniques or ideas. This last year

enables our pupils to make their GCSE

final piece using their Year 10 art work

as a firm base. Throughout the two years

the art department is open all day until

5.30pm or 7.30pm. Saturday mornings

are used for focused prep guidance and

specialist workshops. Pupils are able to

ask any teacher or technician for advice

in order to realise their ideas.

The exam is a short project set by the

exam board in the Lent term, worth 40%

of the final grade. Most of the marks are

gained in the 8 week preparatory period.

During the exam itself, pupils will

produce their final piece.

What does a pupil gain from studying Art?

The study of art enables most

importantly creative thinking which is

set to be one of the top 3 employability

skills by 2020. In an ever changing

technological world creativity is key to

so many things in which we engage and

design is intrinsic in every aspect of our

surroundings. Art will challenge our

perception of who, what and how we

interact with the world.

Pupils will develop their creative and

imaginative powers. They hone their

practical skills for communicating and

expressing their ideas and feelings

through visual art, design and

manufacturing. Pupils develop

investigative, analytical, experimental

and interpretative capabilities, aesthetic

understanding and critical skills. In

addition to the above pupils will develop

their ability to work independently,

solve problems, present their ideas, and

develop a deeper understanding of the

lives, feelings, ideas and motivations of

others in their own and other cultures.

Art and Design: Textiles

What does Art and Design: Textiles involve at GCSE?

Art and Design Textiles is all about the

creation of products for woven, knitted,

stitched, printed or decorative textiles

that might have a functional or non-

functional purpose. Textiles is the

creative subject that teaches you how to

design and make clothes, accessories or

furnishings. Some pupils focus purely on

art textiles making sculptural or

decorative pieces.

Pupils are required to work in one or

more area(s) of textile design, such as:

art textiles, fashion design and

illustration, costume design, constructed

textiles, printed and dyed textiles,

surface pattern, stitched and/or

embellished textiles, soft furnishings

and/or textiles for interiors, digital

textiles, installed textiles. Pupils learn

skills including: weaving, felting,

stitching, appliqué, construction

methods, printing and use these

techniques to produce individual

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outcomes. Both traditional and

innovative materials are used and

students can experiment with inks,

yarns, threads, fibres, fabrics, textile

materials, photography and digital

imagery. There are two components to

the textiles course.

Component 1: Portfolio

Pupils submit a portfolio that comprises

of a sustained project and a further

selection of individual work. There is no

time limit and the portfolio is worth 60%

of the GCSE

Component 2: Externally set assignment

Pupils respond to their chosen starting

point from an externally set assignment

paper issued in January Year 11. Pupils

have an unlimited preparation period

followed by 10 hours of supervised time.

The externally set assignment is worth

40% of the GCSE.

What does a pupil gain from studying Art and Design: Textiles?

Throughout the textiles course pupils

enjoy developing their creativity through

design and making skills. Textiles GCSE is

suitable not just for those who have

enjoyed textiles in Year 9 but also those

who may wish to follow a career in

fashion, interior design or theatrical

costume making. Furthermore, the skills

pupils learn through exploring and

refining their own ideas and bringing

them to fruition can be applied to a

wide range of areas; pupils enjoy the

opportunity to work to their own

strengths and interests. A creative,

independent learner is the best of them

all.

Classical Civilisation

What does classical civilisation involve at GCSE?

Classical civilisation looks at the ancient

worlds of Greece and Rome, including

their culture, society and literature.

The OCR syllabus is followed. This course

involves the study of 2 units, each worth

50% of the total GCSE.

Unit 1: Myth and Religion

Coverage: Greek and Roman

gods, heroes and myths; religious

festivals and activities; links

between myths and power;

practices and beliefs surrounding

death and burial.

1 hour 30 written paper

Unit 2: The Homeric World

Coverage: Homer The Odyssey,

books 9, 10, 19, 21, 22 (in

translation); background to

Homeric world (eg Mycenaean

palaces)

1 hour 30 written paper

It is not necessary for pupils to have

studied classical civilisation in Year 9,

since the GCSE course presumes no

previous knowledge, nor are pupils

required to know any Latin or Greek as

the whole syllabus is studied in English

(including the literature topic).

What does a pupil gain from studying Classical Civilisation?

Much of European culture derives from

the Greeks and Romans, and this course

will not only provide insights into these

two great civilisations but will also help

pupils to better understand the basis

from which our literature, thinking and

way of life have developed. This subject

appeals to those who would like to

combine cultural and historical analysis

with the ever-fascinating myths and

legends of the classical world. Pupils are

encouraged to investigate comparisons

between ancient and modern life and

often find that our classical past gives us

a real insight into our complex present.

Analysing civilisations that seem quite

different to our own also helps us to

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appreciate and read human behaviour

and develops highly profitable skills that

enable us to interpret cultural

differences.

Classical Greek

What does Classical Greek involve at GCSE?

The Classical Greek GCSE covers the

study of both language and literature.

The GCSE consists of three written

papers as follows:

Paper 1 Language (passages for

comprehension and

translation into English)

1 hour 30 minutes – 100

marks (50% of GCSE)

Paper 2 Prose Literature (usually

an extract from Herodotus

e.g. stories of Cyrus the

Great, king of Persia)

1 hour – 50 marks (25% of

GCSE)

Paper 3 Verse Literature (usually

an extract from Homer:

Odyssey e.g. book VI

where Odysseus meets

Nausicaa)

1 hour – 50 marks (25% of

GCSE)

Classical Greek is generally

acknowledged to be one of the most

testing subjects on the curriculum and

bright pupils will enjoy the challenge.

Classical Greek GCSE is only available to

those pupils in GCSE Latin set 1, and

both subjects are studied concurrently

over the course of two years (Years 10

and 11), culminating in two GCSEs.

Therefore pupils wishing to study

Classical Greek need to choose Latin as

one of their options, and be aware that

the course will be supplemented by a

weekly extracurricular lesson. The

classes are small in number, allowing for

rapid progress and the opportunity to

address the needs of individuals. There

is a prescribed vocabulary list for the

language papers so that pupils are not

faced with unfamiliar words in the

examination.

There is no coursework or controlled

assessment in this GCSE.

What does a pupil gain from studying Classical Greek?

Classical Greek is an obvious

complement to Latin, although Greek is

arguably more challenging linguistically

than Latin, and the range and quality of

Greek literature is generally considered

to be superior. As well as mastering the

basics of a highly inflected language,

pupils will begin to appreciate something

of the legacy we owe to the Greeks in

terms of democracy, history, drama,

etc.

A good pass at GCSE is a qualification

valued by any university or employer

looking for evidence of real academic

ability and indicates that a pupil has the

flexibility of mind and the potential to

succeed at the highest level in a wide

range of disciplines.

Computer Science

What does Computer Science involve at

GCSE?

Computer Science is of enormous

importance to the economy, and the

role of Computer Science as a discipline

itself and as an 'underpinning' subject

across science and engineering is

growing rapidly.

Computer technology continues to

advance rapidly and the way that

technology is consumed has also been

changing at a fast pace over recent

years. The growth in the use of mobile

devices and web-related technologies

has exploded, resulting in new

challenges for employers and employees.

For example, businesses today require

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an ever-increasing number of

technologically-aware individuals. This is

even more so in the gaming, mobile and

web related industries and this GCSE has

been designed with this in mind.

Pupils will learn how to create

applications that potentially:

run on mobile devices

operate in a web enabled

environment.

In addition they will:

learn how to create simple computer

games

gain an understanding of the

fundamental concepts around creating

software applications

have opportunities to work

collaboratively

develop skill in writing programs using

a popular coding platform (Python)

The qualification is split into three

components:

• Component 1 - Practical programming

- is conducted under controlled

conditions. This is non-examined but

contributes towards component 2.

Pupils are expected to spend 20

supervised hours completing the one

exam board set practical task.

• Component 2 – Problem solving - is

exam based. This is 50% of the marks

and consists of one 1½ hour

examination.

• Component 3 - Computing

fundamentals - is exam based. This is

50% of the marks and consists of one

1½ hour examination.

The examination board will provide a

controlled practical task that will allow

pupils to demonstrate skill in practical

programming using Python for example.

What does a pupil gain from studying

Computer Science at GCSE?

This GCSE fits very well with any pattern

of GCSE choices. It will appeal to anyone

who has an interest in developing

software or if you are interested in the

way technology works. It was recently

announced that GCSE Computer Science

counts towards the English

Baccalaureate science measure, offering

pupils a new option that achieves

maximum recognition.

Dance

What does Dance involve at GCSE?

GCSE Dance helps pupils develop

technical and expressive skills as well as

knowledge and understanding of dance

through performance, choreography and

critical appreciation of dance. The

stimulating course offers a unique

opportunity for pupils to express

themselves artistically and creatively.

The AQA board have created four set

phrases, you are required to replicate

two of them exactly and perform a duet

or trio showing elements of the other

two, this will constitute 30% of your final

mark. A group or solo choreography

forms the other 30% of your practical

mark where you will choose a starting

point/stimulus such as:

A 2D or 3D piece of Art or sculpture

Themes

Historical Events

Poem or Literature

The practical component of the course

will total 60% of the final mark with a

40% written exam. This will be based on

their ability to analyse, comment,

compare, define, evaluate, interpret

and discuss their own choreography and

the six dance works in the Anthology.

The Anthology incudes a range of dance

styles including Hip Hop, Ballet,

Contemporary, Lyrical, Pedestrian,

Accessible, Brazilian Samba and Site

Sensitive. The course will include

workshops from nationally renowned

dance companies such as Rambert, The

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Royal Ballet, James Cousins Company,

Phoenix Dance Theatre Company and

Boy Blue.

What does a pupil gain from studying Dance?

Health and fitness - 60% practical

Course

Literacy, description -

interpretation, analysis and

interpretation

Team skills - group performance.

Communication skills - choreography

tasks

Preparation for further education

and future employment

Design and Technology

What does Design and Technology involve at GCSE?

GCSE Design and Technology (DT) will

prepare pupils to participate confidently

and successfully in an increasingly

technological world. Pupils will gain

awareness and learn from the wider

influence of design and technology

including historical, social, cultural,

environmental and economic factors. Pupils will get the opportunity to work

creatively when designing and making

and apply technical and practical

expertise.

Undoubtedly there is an increasing focus

upon environmental responsibility and

sustainability and this is reflected in the

GCSE specification that pupils will be

studying should they choose DT as one of

their subject choices. One of the first

projects, therefore, will be for them to

design and make a weather resistant

cardboard portfolio for their design work

which is wholly recyclable and reusable.

Also, building upon the skills learnt in

Year 9, pupils will increasingly use a

wider range of materials and processes

to make both simple and more complex

projects that may include a phone

charging stand and a desk lamp.

Written Paper and Non-exam

assessment

The structure of the course comprises of

a written paper of 2 hours in duration

and is worth 50% of the overall GCSE.

There are three separate sections –

Section A – Core technical principles (20

marks)

A mixture of multiple choice and short

answer questions assessing a breadth of

technical knowledge and understanding.

Section B – Specialist technical principles

(30 marks)

Several short answer questions (2–5

marks) and one extended response to

assess a more in depth knowledge of

technical principles.

Section C – Designing and making

principles (50 marks)

A mixture of short answer and extended

response questions.

There is also the NEA, or non-exam

assessment, which is a piece of

coursework that demonstrates the

practical application of the skills shown

above, where pupils will design and

make a prototype project. It is a

substantial design and make task that

includes pupils –

Identifying and investigating design

possibilities

Producing a design brief and

specification

Generating design ideas

Developing design ideas

Realising design ideas

Analysing & evaluating

The department regularly runs GCSE DT

visits and there are opportunities for

being involved in competitions and

challenges. In Year 11 talented students

will have the opportunity to apply for

the Arkwright Scholarship.

What does a pupil gain from studying DT?

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Design and Technology is a very valuable

subject to study, even for those not

anticipating a future in design and

manufacture, since it teaches a wide

range of transferable skills including

creativity, technological knowledge,

high level ICT and verbal, written and

graphical communication. It can open

the door to a wide range of university

courses and careers from architecture to

engineering and from graphic to product

design. Drama

What does Drama involve at GCSE?

This course is best suited to those with a

genuine enthusiasm for the subject.

Classes involve the development of

analytical skills in writing about

productions seen, studying text and

articulating evaluation of practical work.

Performance and technical skills are

developed in a variety of regularly

assessed group presentations and

performances, experimenting with set,

costume, lighting and sound design.

Pupils will also study set texts and

drama pupils are expected to attend all

pro-drama events (typically once or

twice a term and currently charged at

the subsidised rate of £9 a ticket) and

should also attend performances of

other year groups such as Year 11, 12

and 13 practical performances.

Coursework and final written

examination are based on the pupils

written responses to what they have

seen and studied so fluent writing skills

are essential.

GCSE drama pupils will be invited to and

be expected to attend theatre

productions outside of school (at least

twice per year) to support their learning

of live theatre production.

What does a pupil gain from studying Drama?

Pupils will refine analytical skills and

learn the value of disciplined teamwork

in working towards specific objectives.

They will gain communication and

presentational skills in personal and

technical terms as well as in their

written work.

EAL - English as an Additional Language

Eastbourne College welcomes all pupils

for whom English is a second (or

additional) language so long as they have

the aptitude and ability to cope with

being taught in English. To enable them

to become stronger in English and

benefit fully from all the educational

opportunities on offer, the EAL

programme provides compulsory tuition

for international pupils throughout their

time at the College:

In Years 10 and 11 pupils have 6 periods

over a two week cycle. These lessons are

instead of French lessons.

What does the study of English as an Additional Language involve at IGCSE?

The IGCSE course in English as a second

language aims to improve English

language competence in the four skills of

reading, listening, speaking and writing

through a varied programme of study

drawing on course books, readers and

topical articles. Lessons which focus on

grammatical points are interspersed with

the study of texts and participation in

discussions of current issues; oral

presentations and creative writing

consolidate the acquisition of structures

and vocabulary. The course material is

lively and selected to appeal to the

interests of secondary school pupils. The

cultural dimension of communication is

also addressed by developing awareness

of British traditions and customs through

comparisons with other cultures. In the

examination, competence is tested

through realistic and contextualised

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tasks for reading comprehension,

informal and formal writing tasks, a

listening test and a separately endorsed

speaking test.

What does a pupil gain from studying IGCSE English as an Additional Language? The IGCSE qualification is designed for

pupils obtaining their secondary

education through English as a medium

of instruction or studying English in order

to enhance their future educational

employment prospects. (It is aimed at

the B2 level of the Council of Europe’s

Common European Framework).

By following this course pupils

strengthen their command of the

language and acquire an understanding

of register and style in different

contexts. They also have the opportunity

to practise the key skills of skimming

and scanning texts, summarising and

analysing, which will stand them in good

stead in their future studies. They learn

to interact fluently and appropriately in

formal and informal contexts, and to

produce clearly expressed letters and

discursive essays.

French

What does the study of French involve at GCSE? The GCSE course is enjoyable, lively and

varied. Pupils will continue with the

familiar skills of speaking, reading,

listening, translation and writing within

topics that are aimed to stimulate and

be of practical use abroad: identity and

culture; local, national and global areas

of interest; current and future choices.

In addition to this everyone will be given

an introduction to aspects of French

culture, for example lifestyle,

civilization and geography, and will be

exposed to literary texts. A solid

grounding in grammar will ensure that

all feel comfortable and confident to

GCSE and beyond. Studies will be based

around a course book, but frequent use

is made of additional resources,

including video, the language laboratory

and ICT. Furthermore, the LRC offers an

increasing stock of individual resources.

What does a pupil gain from studying French? No one can doubt the importance of

languages in our increasingly

international world. Whatever the future

holds, the ability to offer a modern

foreign language is a skill that is highly

valued, giving you the competitive edge

and opening doors to employment

opportunities anywhere in the world.

With France as our closest European

nation, the world’s favourite holiday

destination and a leading cultural and

political force, and with French as a

major international language, spoken by

more than 200 million people in over 50

countries, the ability to speak French is

a major advantage on the international

job market as well as an important

communication skill. French is an official

language of the United Nations, the

European Union, UNESCO, NATO, the

International Olympic Committee, the

International Red Cross and international

courts.

French speakers are in demand in a wide

range of careers, including banking and

finance, diplomacy, international trade,

hotel management, journalism and

media, education, translation and

interpreting, aviation, tourism, customer

services, health care and law

enforcement. Studying a foreign

language gives you more than just

language skills. It is an excellent way to

gain an insight into other cultures and

enables you to see the world through

different eyes.

Most pupils will have been learning

French for several years and therefore

already have a very firm foundation for

progression to GCSE. Our course leads

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perfectly into the A-level course,

producing pupils who are confident and

capable in most situations.

Geography

What does Geography involve at GCSE?

In short, it enquires of the most

fascinating challenges facing humankind,

and it develops a vital set of skills that

promote both a deepened understanding

of the world we inhabit, and an ability,

within us, to make wise choices.

Geography is the study of the world in

which we live. It is ‘out there’, in all the

places that we see, and the people that

we meet. It is the study of humankind,

the environment and their interaction.

During this course pupils will look at the

forces that shape our world, and explore

trends and patterns in human behaviour,

deepening their appreciation of where

people live and their various needs. It

poses tantalising questions and seeks to

understand how best to respond to

them. For example, can we feed nine

billion people of Planet Earth by 2050?

Will we run out of natural resources? Is

the UK losing its global significance? Why

should tropical rainforests matter to us?

What influences the landscapes of the

UK? The interaction between people and

their environment is studied at a range

of scales, from global through to local.

Teaching of the subject is varied,

making use of a number of resources.

Much of the teaching and learning will

involve role plays, debate and

discussion, group and independent

presentations, as well as written work.

Audio-visual clips will be shared to help

demonstrate the topicality of the

subject matter, and its relevance to

today’s decision-makers. Opportunities

will also exist to explore the subject

outdoors, through fieldwork.

A varied programme of fieldwork

opportunities is offered - during the past

three years, GCSE geographers at

Eastbourne College have had the chance

to visit interesting and beautiful sites in

and around Eastbourne, as well as to

travel internationally to Morocco,

Iceland and Italy. Further optional

international excursions are planned for

coming years. The subject also makes

really good use of new technologies to

engage pupils and to embed learning.

The OCR Geography B (Geography for

Enquiring Minds) course covers a range

of units, all of which are very relevant to

a good deal of today’s most interesting

challenges and debates. It grapples with

real-world issues that affect people

every day, both internationally, and

much closer to home.

What does a pupil gain from studying Geography?

The pupil who studies Geography will

develop a greater awareness of the

wider environment in which they live

and an appreciation of the way in which

the modern world works. They will learn

to recognise and understand the

processes and decisions that take place

in their lives, from natural disasters to

government policies, and nurture an

understanding of why they should be

taking responsibility for our world, as it

is they, in fact, who will be in control of

its future. Each pupil will have the

opportunity to further enhance skills in

ICT, fieldwork and data analysis, in

addition to applying their writing and

numerical skills in a variety of rewarding

contexts.

Geography is both a science and an art

and, as such, it provides an opportunity

to study a range of topics that can

complement a wide spectrum of other

subjects across the curriculum. The

outcome of the course is an individual

who possesses a better appreciation of

the way in which the modern world

works, and it offers an inspiring

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perspective on some of the major issues

that face our futures. It also produces an

individual who is in possession of a very

wide skills base, one that would be of

real benefit in any future study, or

career.

German

What does the study of German involve at GCSE?

The GCSE course is enjoyable, lively and

varied. Pupils will continue with the

familiar skills of speaking, reading,

listening, translation and writing within

topics that are aimed to stimulate and

be of practical use abroad: identity and

culture; local, national and global areas

of interest; current and future choices.

In addition to this everyone will be given

an introduction to aspects of German

culture, for example lifestyle,

civilization and geography, and will be

exposed to literary texts. A solid

grounding in grammar will ensure that

all feel comfortable and confident to

GCSE and beyond. Studies will be based

around a course book, but frequent use

is made of additional resources,

including video, the language laboratory

and ICT. Furthermore, the LRC offers an

increasing stock of individual resources.

Everyone will have the opportunity to

participate in trips, including the Swiss

exchange.

What does a pupil gain from studying German?

No one can doubt the importance of

languages in our increasingly

international world. Whatever the future

holds, the ability to offer a modern

foreign language is a skill that is highly

valued, giving you the competitive edge

and opening doors to employment

opportunities anywhere in the world.

Germany is now the largest nation in

Europe and remains the dominant force

in European economics. She is Britain’s

largest European trading partner with an

ever-increasing political influence.

German is widely used throughout

Europe, and is considered a real asset

for all careers in business and science,

not to mention its position in the

literary, musical and philosophical

worlds. It links extremely well with

those studying history and English,

reinforcing knowledge of those subjects,

as well as complementing mathematics

and the sciences. Our course leads

perfectly into the A-level course,

producing pupils who are confident and

capable in most situations.

History

What does History involve at GCSE?

GCSE History gives pupils the great

opportunity to study some of the most

momentous events of the twentieth

century. We focus on four key areas:

1. Germany, 1918-1945 – how

Germany emerged out of the

carnage of the First World War, the

rise of Hitler and the Nazis, and the

nature of Nazi rule before and

during the Second World War.

2. The Cold War, 1945-1972 – the

origins and the development of the

Cold War; how the wartime alliance

between the USA and the USSR fell

apart; from Khrushchev’s offer of

peaceful co-existence to near

nuclear war. We will analyse various

international crises, including: the

Berlin Airlift, the Korean War, the

Hungarian Uprising, the U2 Incident,

the Berlin Wall, the Cuban Missiles

Crisis, The Prague Spring and

détente.

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3. The Vietnam Conflict, 1945-1975 –

the origins, nature and

consequences of the war in Asia.

This historical investigation will

consider just how a third world

Asian country defeated the USA. We

will move from the end of French

colonial control in Vietnam to the

invasion of south Vietnam by the

communist north Vietnamese. USA

tactics and the ways in which the

Vietcong resisted effectively, will be

analysed. This is then followed by an

investigation into the growth of the

Opposition Movement towards the

war in the United States and how far

this influenced Nixon’s

‘Vietnamisation’ process.

4. China, 1900-1989 – how did China

grow into today’s superpower?

Chairman Mao, the Long March, the

Hundred Flowers Campaign, the

Cultural Revolution. Deng, The Gang

of Four, Tiananmen Square, and

westernisation.

All four topics will be examined at the

end of the course in two 90 minute

exams.

What does a pupil gain from studying History?

The GCSE History course builds on the

work covered in Year 9 to provide a

coherent understanding of the key

events that have shaped today’s world.

Not only is this invaluable – some might

say essential – but it is also fascinating.

Nor is GCSE History just about learning

dates and detail: it helps to develop

vital life skills such as independent

research, considered analysis of

evidence and clear communication of

argument. It is challenging, rewarding

and useful.

Latin

What does Latin involve at GCSE?

The Latin GCSE covers the study of both

language and literature. The GCSE

consists of three written papers as

follows:

Paper 1 Language (passages for

comprehension and translation

into English with the option of

English to Latin sentences)

1 hour 30 minutes – 100 marks

(50% of GCSE)

Paper 2 Prose Literature (usually

extracts from Roman writers

such as Tacitus and Cicero)

1 hour – 50 marks (25% of

GCSE)

Paper 3 Verse Literature (usually

extracts from Roman poets

such as Virgil, Catullus or Ovid)

1 hour – 50 marks (25% of

GCSE)

There is a prescribed vocabulary list

which covers all the vocabulary for the

two language papers.

There are usually two GCSE Latin sets.

Those in set 1 will be studying Latin and

Classical Greek concurrently over the

course of two years (Years 10 and 11),

culminating in two GCSEs. Those in set 2

take the usual two-year course to GCSE.

There is no coursework or controlled

assessment in Latin GCSE.

What does a pupil gain from studying Latin?

The study of Latin greatly improves

linguistic skills and language

understanding, as well as providing a

useful basis for going on to learn other

modern languages such as French or

Spanish. Pupils learn grammar (without

breaking out into a cold sweat or

- 17 -

fainting) and significantly improve their

knowledge of English language and

vocabulary. Pupils also read some

original Latin, both verse and prose, and

thus they can feel a real sense of

achievement by the end of the course.

Along the way they will also gain some

idea of what the Romans and the Latin

language have passed on to European

culture. In a world of dumbing down and

questionable standards, Latin retains its

reputation as a valued GCSE because it

still demands accurate, logical thinking

and the texts are as challenging as they

ever were. A good GCSE grade in Latin is

worth a lot more than the piece of paper

it’s written on!

Music

What does Music involve at GCSE?

The Music GCSE course is designed

around the three key areas of

appraising/listening, performing and

composing. It builds on the skills

developed in the Year 9 music course

and also prepares the ground for those

who may wish to study music in the sixth

form. Pupils are taught in sets with a

maximum of ten people in each.

The appraising/listening unit (40%) is

divided into four areas of study:

instrumental music, fusions, music for

stage and screen and vocal music. You

will learn about the history, contexts,

instruments and techniques of a wide

variety of styles and genres from Bach

and Beethoven to music by Queen and

from Star Wars. You need to be open-

minded about listening to new types of

music, but you don’t need any previous

knowledge of music theory. There is a

written exam lasting 1 hour 45 minutes.

For the performance unit (30%) you are

assessed by recording two pieces of

music in Year 11, totaling a minimum of

four minutes. One will be a solo piece

(with accompaniment if needed) and the

other will be an ensemble piece. Your

class and instrumental (or vocal)

teachers will help you prepare for this:

the emphasis is very much on playing

accurately and musically at a suitable

level rather than being expected to play

technically advanced material, and you

don’t need to have taken any grade

exams previously. As a guide, if you are

at about grade 3 standard now you

should be well placed to tackle this unit

in Year 11.

For the composition unit (30%) you will

write two pieces, one in response to a

brief set by Edexcel, which is linked to

one of the areas of study in the

appraising / listening section, plus one

piece in any style of your choice. The

two pieces must have a combined

duration of at least three minutes.

Extensive introductory tuition in the

basics of composition is given using the

software in the Mac suites, and the

pieces are then written during up to 45

hours of controlled assessment.

What does a pupil gain from studying Music?

The course aims to widen the musical

and cultural horizons of the students and

develop their skills as creators, critics

and performers. It is equally effective as

a programme of study in its own right, or

as a foundation for further study in Music

or Music Technology at A-level and

beyond. IT skills are developed through

the use of Sibelius and Logic software.

For those pupils learning an instrument

or voice there is also the opportunity to

make their extra-curricular studies count

towards an academic qualification.

Physical Education

What does Physical Education involve at GCSE?

The GCSE Physical Education course is

divided into two parts – theory and

practical. In the theory component,

- 18 -

pupils study key concepts and processes

in Physical Education which includes

health related fitness; anatomy and

physiology of the human body; training,

safe exercise and participating in sport,

sport psychology and sport in society,

which involves contemporary issues in

sport and the structure of sport both

nationally and internationally. The

theory component carries a weighting of

60% of the course and assessment

consists of two written papers.

In the practical component, pupils will

become increasingly physically

competent through being actively

engaged in a variety of physical

activities ranging from individual

participation sports such as athletics and

swimming through to major participation

games such as rugby and hockey. They

will develop their ability to engage

independently and successfully in the

processes of these different types of

physical activity and they will develop

and maintain their involvement in

physical activity as part of a healthy

active lifestyle.

Pupils have the opportunity to be

assessed in their performance in three

different types of physical activity as

well as in roles, such as coach and / or

official. The practical component is

internally assessed and carries a

weighting of 40% of the course.

What does a pupil gain from studying Physical Education?

A pupil who studies Physical Education

will have a better understanding of all

aspects of physical fitness and sport as

well as the importance of a balanced,

healthy lifestyle. He or she will be able

to apply this knowledge to their own

individual performance and participation

in activities beyond the course. The

course will also develop leadership skills

and should be motivating and enjoyable

for the right pupil, giving them the

opportunity to achieve a high grade as a

result.

Religious Studies

What does Religious Studies involve at GCSE?

The vast majority of people in the world

believe in God. Why they do varies

enormously. It might have to do with

their background and upbringing,

arguments they have been persuaded by

or some kind of personal experience that

convinces them God is real. Some are

convinced by religion, others view it as a

disease or illness. However it is seen,

believing in God changes the way a

person lives; it affects what they buy in

supermarkets, who they marry, whether

they will fight in a war. The GCSE

Religious Studies course focuses on how

religious and non-religious arguments

changes people’s views on some of the

most important issues in life.

Predominantly the course focuses on

Christianity, Judaism and atheism and

the way in which these different ‘faith

positions’ encourage people to think and

make decisions. Sometimes they agree,

sometimes they don’t. By looking at the

beliefs and practices of others it is

hoped that those who take the course

will be able to understand their own

views more clearly. The subjects that

are studied are broad and varied;

evolution, abortion, the environment,

life after death, war, marriage,

punishment, sexuality, poverty,

euthanasia, politics, the family, racism,

genetic engineering and money, to name

a few.

The course moves quickly and covers

areas of interest that always appear in

the newspapers or on television. For

those who are interested in life and

people, GCSE Religious Studies is an

ideal course to choose.

- 19 -

What does a pupil gain from studying Religious Studies?

Religious Studies is one of the fastest

growing GCSE options in the country. It

emphasises skills that extend into other

subjects and far beyond the classroom.

It teaches pupils how to examine

evidence, understand ethical and moral

decision making, construct arguments

and reason to realistic personal opinions.

Above all it helps them understand the

arguments and beliefs that are at the

forefront of a constantly changing world.

Spanish

What does the study of Spanish involve at GCSE?

GCSE Spanish offers a thorough

grounding in this popular subject. Pupils

will continue with the familiar skills

encountered to date, that is to say

speaking, reading, listening, translation

and writing. The topics covered are

interesting and practical: identity and

culture; local, national and global areas

of interest; current and future choices.

An insight into Spanish culture

accompanies the course and all pupils

will receive a solid grammatical basis to

their studies. As with German and

French the course book forms the basis

of the course, supplemented with a wide

variety of additional resources and use

of the digital language laboratory.

Furthermore, the LRC benefits from a

growing collection of self-study

resources, films, magazines and

newspapers.

Everyone will have the opportunity to

participate in numerous cultural events

and an exchange or study visit to Spain.

What does a pupil gain from studying Spanish?

No one can doubt the importance of

languages in our increasingly

international world. Whatever the future

holds, the ability to offer a modern

foreign language is a skill that is highly

valued, giving you the competitive edge

and opening doors to employment

opportunities anywhere in the world. Spain will continue to attract visitors

from around the world due to its unique

physical and cultural heritage. With the

number of Spanish speakers about to

supersede English speakers and with

many organizations interested in

developing the huge markets in South

America, Spanish is proving ever more

popular and increasingly in demand.

This is a subject that would complement

any other at GCSE level. Our course

leads perfectly into the A-level course

and allows pupils to become confident

and capable in a wide variety of

situations.

- 20 -

Details of GCSE Subject Specifications

Subject Awarding

Body Specification Title

Specification

Code

Art Eduqas Art and Design C650QS

Biology AQA Biology 8461

Chemistry AQA Chemistry 8462

Classical Civilisation OCR Classical Civilisation J199

Classical Greek OCR Classical Greek J292

Computing AQA Computing 8520

Dance AQA Dance 4230

Design and Technology AQA Design and Technology 8552

Science (Double Award) AQA Combined Science; Trilogy 8464

Drama Eduqas Drama 601/8420/6

English Edexcel GCSE English 1EN0

English Literature Edexcel English Literature 1ET0

EAL Edexcel English as a Second Language 4ES0

French AQA French 8658

Geography OCR Geography B (Enquiring minds) J384

German AQA German 8668

History Edexcel History 4HI0

Latin OCR Latin J282

Mathematics Edexcel IGCSE Mathematics 4MA1

Music Edexcel Music 1MU0

Physical Education AQA Physical Education 8582

Physics AQA Physics 8463

Religious Studies Eduqas Religious Studies C120P4

Spanish AQA Spanish 8698

Textiles AQA Art and Design 8204

More details may be found on the examination board websites:

AQA www.aqa.org.uk

CIE www.cie.org.uk

OCR www.ocr.org.uk

Edexcel http://qualifications.pearson.com/en/home.html

Eduqas http://www.eduqas.co.uk

Heads of Departments will also be able to provide specific information about subject

specifications.

- 21 -

Heads of Departments If you have any questions about particular subject issues, please contact the appropriate Head of

Department, who will be happy to discuss anything that may concern you. The details below may

help you to contact the appropriate person.

name tel. e-mail

Art Mrs J L A Harriott 452335 jlah@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Biology Miss V Woodham 451914 vwoodham@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Chemistry Mr D C Miller 451915 dcm@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Classical Civilisation Mr P J Canning 451904 pjcanning@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Classical Greek Mr P J Canning 451904 pjcanning@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Computing Mr I R Shakespeare 452268 irs@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Dance Mrs C E A Sinnett 451907 ceasinnett@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Design and Technology Mr M J Clover 452246 mjclover@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Drama / Theatre Studies Mrs C E A Sinnett 451907 ceasinnett@eastbourne-college.co.uk

English Mrs J E Bathard-Smith 452216 jebathard-smith@eastbourne-college.co.uk

EAL Miss K Briedenhann 452258 kbriedenhann@eastbourne-college.co.uk

French Mr E V Protin 452213 evprotin@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Geography Mr S Mason 452218 smason@eastbourne-college.co.uk

German Mr E V Protin 452213 evprotin@eastbourne-college.co.uk

History Mr T J Spiers 452336 tjspiers@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Latin Mr P J Canning 451904 pjcanning@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Learning Support Mr A J Spraggon 451930 ajspraggon@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Mathematics Mr J R Wooldridge 452331 jrw@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Music Mr T G Laverack 452340 tglaverack@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Physics Mrs E J Livingstone-Greer 452284 ejlivingstone-greer@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Physical Education Mrs J M Simmonds 452332 jmsimmonds@eastbourne-college.co.uk

PSHE Mrs J M Kirtley 452213 jmk@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Religious Studies Mr A P Wood 452285 apwood@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Science Dr A Ball 452284 aball@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Spanish Mr E V Protin 452213 evprotin@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Textiles Ms Z B Cosgrove 452246 zbcosgrove@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Futures Ms S J Gordon 452211 sjgordon@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Deputy Head (Academic) Mr J M Gilbert 452300 jmg@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Head of Curriculum Mr P J Canning 452300 pjcanning@eastbourne-college.co.uk

- 22 -

GCSE Option Choices Form 2019–2021

Please list four subject choices from the option blocks listed in this booklet; one

from each block as per the direction provided.

Choice from Block 1

Choice from Block 2

Choice from Block 3

Choice from Block 4

Signed (Pupil) Name House

(current pupils)

Signed (Parent) Name

Please return this form to your son or daughter’s Housemaster or

Housemistress, by Monday 3rd June 2019. For new pupils, please return this form to the admissions department by Monday 3 June 2019. Thank you.

admissions@eastbourne-college.co.uk

GCSE OptiOnS2019 – 2021

www.eastbourne-college.co.uk

+44 (0)1323 452323

admissions@eastbourne-college.co.uk

+44 (0)1323 452300

reception@eastbourne-college.co.uk

Headmaster

Tom Lawson MA (Oxon)

Eastbourne CollegeOld Wish Road

Eastbourne

East Sussex

BN21 4JX

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Marlborough House

Old Wish Road, Eastbourne

East Sussex BN21 4JY

A Limited Company

Registered in England

No 115408

Registered Charity

No 307071